A nature reservoir right in the heart of the city, the MacRitchie Reservoir Park is the go-to place for most Singaporeans when it comes to being one with nature.
The perfect place to train for cross-country runs, nature trails and hike for kilometres. It's also absolutely brilliant for those wanting a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
You can take your family along and get your children off their laptops, smartphones, television and all the different screens that we stay glued to throughout the day.
And for those wanting to fire up their Instagram game, the MacRitchie reservoir is also the perfect haven for some splendid shots, especially on top of the TreeTop Walk.
So what are you thinking about? It's time to plan a trip to Singapore's largest reservoir and water catchment system that is a perfect place for runners, nature enthusiasts and even water sports lovers.
And to help you plan your trip easier, we list out the top five things you must do at the MacRitchie Reservoir all of which can be conquered in a day.
1. Hike Up To The TreeTop Walk
One of the most popular attractions at the MacRitchie Park is the TreeTop Walk. It is a 250 metre-long free-standing suspension bridge that offers a bird’s eye view of the forest canopy, 25 metres from the ground.
The TreeTop Walk is the first of its kind in Singapore and connects the two highest points of MacRitchie – Bukit Kalang and Bukit Peirce.
It is a narrow walk and allows for only single direction traffic. You will have to enter from the Ranger Station via Peirce Track.
Do note, the TreeTop Walk is open from 9 am to 5 pm between Tuesday and Friday. It's open from 8:30 am to 5 pm over the weekend. It's closed on Mondays except for public holidays.
2. Explore The MacRitchie Reservoir On A Kayak
The MacRitchie Reservoir is known for plenty of water sports that certainly make the kids happy. And for those looking to get really up and close with nature, you must try out kayaking at the reservoir park.
You can rent a kayak from the Paddle Lodge to explore the reservoir park from the waters. Not just kayaks, you can also rent different kinds of boats for as little as $12 per hour.
Meanwhile, renting a kayak will be about $15 per hour for the double sit-on-top versions.
If you've hiked in the MacRitchie Reservoir Park before, this would be a fun way to soak in the same sights from a different perspective.
3. Try Freshwater Fishing
Sometimes, it's fun to take matters into your own hands or in this case, take a fishing rod and head to the freshwater body in the reservoir park. Not only is it legal to fish here but you can do it peacefully.
Do make sure to take a fishing rod along as renting one here isn't a possibility. You will find the designated fishing area near the Paddle Lodge.
4. Explore The Nature Trails At The MacRitchie Park
The MacRitchie Reservoir Park dates back all the way to 1867 and there are plenty of nature trails to explore.
Some of the trails that you can explore include:
- 3 Km Green Trail – Prunus and Petai Boardwalk
- 7 Km Orange trail – quickest route to the Treetop Walk
- 11 Km Yellow Trail – longest trail that covers essentially all the park’s attraction
5. Discover Wildlife At The MacRitchie Reservoir Park
The park is one of the most amazing places to connect with nature and wildlife.
If you are a fan of the wild, be prepared to spot the fearless macaques, monitor lizards, turtles, squirrels, tree and whip snakes.
It's a haven for birdwatchers as well. You can spot kingfishers, woodpeckers, eagles, owls that you can catch with the naked eye. You can also check out the nature guides for the Chemperai and Prunus Trails.
Source: Visit Singapore
ALSO READ:
MacRitchie Reservoir - More Than Just A Reservoir!
Over 41 DIY Walking Trail Guides In Singapore, You Can Enjoy With The Kids